The only thing fit to tow anything according to American car dealerships is a Suburban or full-sized super-duty pickup. While, everywhere else in the world, people tow with subcompacts. In Europe, I bet a vehicle like the Element is rated to tow 3,000 pounds.
CD
Element is rated for 1500 lbs.
I towed my TD with a 2008 Civic (tow cap. 1000 lbs) with no troubles from BC to CA. No brakes on the trailer but I load the car to capacity with as little in the trailer as possible while on the highway or through large cities with lots of traffic. I always follow the rule that the trailer should never be heavier than 50% of the tow vehicle unless it has brakes.